Hyperacusis

Hyperacusis is abnormally acute hearing or painful sensitivity to audible sounds.

People with hyperacusis experience increased sensitivity to sounds that are not a problem for most people. Even quiet sounds, such as rustling clothes, clicking a mouse, or talking, can seem deafeningly loud and cause discomfort or pain.

The causes of hyperacusis are not fully understood. This may be due to damage to the hair cells in the inner ear, which are responsible for converting sound waves into nerve impulses. Hyperacusis can also be caused by brain injury, infection, or exposure to loud noises.

Symptoms of hyperacusis include pain, discomfort, irritability and anxiety when exposed to normal sounds. People with hyperacusis often avoid noisy places and carry earplugs.

To treat hyperacusis, special sound-absorbing headphones and devices that create “white noise” are used. Medicines are also prescribed to reduce pain and anxiety. In severe forms of hyperacusis, psychotherapy may be required.

Hyperacusis: Understanding and managing abnormally acute hearing

Introduction:
Hyperacusis, also known as abnormally acute hearing or painful sensitivity to audible sounds, is a condition characterized by an excessive response to auditory stimuli that most people consider normal or even quiet. Patients with hyperacusis experience discomfort, soreness, or even physical pain when hearing sounds that others may consider insignificant. In this article, we will look at the causes, symptoms, and management of hyperacusis.

Causes of hyperacusis:
Hyperacusis can be caused by various factors. Some patients experience this condition as a result of damage to the ears or hearing system, such as injury, infection, or prolonged exposure to loud sounds. Other cases of hyperacusis are associated with neurological disorders such as migraines, Meniere's disease or auditory overload syndrome. Some studies also indicate a genetic predisposition to developing hyperacusis.

Symptoms of hyperacusis:
The main symptom of hyperacusis is increased sensitivity to sounds. Patients may experience discomfort or pain with common sounds such as cars, conversations, the phone ringing, or even the sound of cooking. This can lead to social isolation, anxiety, depression and reduced quality of life. Some patients also report headaches, dizziness, and problems concentrating.

Management of hyperacusis:
Although hyperacusis can be a chronic condition, there are management techniques that can help patients cope with its symptoms and improve their quality of life. It is important to see an otolaryngologist (ENT doctor) or audiologist to receive an accurate diagnosis and develop an individual treatment plan. Here are some possible approaches to managing hyperacusis:

1. Hearing protection: Using headphones or cotton balls to cushion the effects of noisy environments or situations can help reduce discomfort and pain.

2. Sound therapy: Using specially tuned sound generators or acoustic devices can help patients become accustomed to certain sounds and reduce their response to them. This may include white noise therapy, sound therapy, or sound masking.

3. Psychological support: Patients with hyperacusis may benefit from seeing a psychologist or counselor to help manage the stress, anxiety and emotional aspects associated with the condition.

4. Pharmacotherapy: In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce sensitivity to sound or relieve symptoms associated with hyperacusis. This may include medications such as antidepressants, anxiolytics, or pain relief medications.

5. Avoiding Excessive Noise: Avoiding situations with high noise levels or using ear protection in noisy environments can help prevent hyperacusis symptoms from worsening.

Conclusion:
Hyperacusis is a condition that can significantly affect a patient's quality of life. However, with proper management and support, most patients can achieve reduced symptoms and better functioning. It is important to contact qualified specialists to obtain a diagnosis and develop an individual treatment plan. With new research and developments in treatments, the hope of relieving the symptoms of hyperacusis is becoming increasingly realistic.

Hyperacusis is a painful increased sensitivity to sounds, their perception is several times sharper and longer lasting than in a healthy person. This leads to headaches, irritability, and decreased cognitive function. With an exacerbation of hyperacusis, there is a risk of partial deafness: there is too much hearing, it cannot be completely absorbed and the person begins to constantly ask again.